In the context of biochemistry, what does the term 'enzyme' refer to?

The term 'enzyme' refers to a biological catalyst, which means it is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. Enzymes are typically proteins that facilitate biochemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed. This allows metabolic processes to occur under the mild conditions of temperature and pH found within living organisms.

Enzymes are highly specific for their substrates, meaning each enzyme typically catalyzes a particular chemical reaction or type of reaction. This specificity is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and regulation of metabolic pathways within cells. Because they are not altered by the reactions they catalyze, enzymes can be used repeatedly, making them essential components in cellular metabolism.